The 42nd annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball was a smashing success held at the Signia Hotel. The black-tie gala raised $4 million to support historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the deserving students they serve. 

The event was hosted by the Honorable Andre Dickens, mayor, City of Atlanta, and Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF. 

Anthony Anderson, award-winning actor and comedian and a proud HBCU alumnus, brought energy, humor and inspiration as the event’s emcee. It was a night of celebration and giving as attendees gathered to support education and the future of our youth. 

Adding to the evening’s excitement, the legendary R&B group En Vogue gave an electrifying performance. Dr. David A. Thomas, president emeritus, Morehouse College, received the prestigious Billye Suber Aaron MASKED Award for his extraordinary leadership and transformative impact on higher education. 

Guests attending the Ball included co-founders of the event, Billye Suber Aaron and Ambassador Andrew Young and his wife Carolyn Young; Senator Raphael Warnock, Congressman Sanford Bishop, Congresswoman Nikema Williams, Former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and husband Derek, and Former Mayor Bill Campbell and wife Sharon, Dekalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran Johnson, Calvin Smyre and Michael Thurmond. The ball welcomed a diverse and influential audience, including celebrities, corporate executives, faith-based leaders, elected officials and community supporters, committed to ensuring students have the opportunity to succeed. 

“The Mayor’s Masked Ball, UNCF’s premier fundraising event, is more than an evening of elegance—it’s a beacon of hope for the countless students striving to achieve their dreams,” said UNCF Assistant Vice President Justine Boyd. “Atlanta shows up for our students and we’re grateful for the incredible support that makes this an unforgettable evening of celebration and impact.” 

The UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball was made possible by generous sponsors, including Norfolk Southern, the title sponsor and presenting sponsors Chick-fil-A, The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, Google, The Home Depot and UPS.  

“UNCF is proud to continue the momentum of fueling HBCUs with vital resources to educate generations of students who will become future leaders in our nation,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF.  

Proceeds from the event will support students access to education through scholarships and operational assistance for UNCF-member colleges.